Definitions

restrained

[ri-streynd] / rɪˈstreɪnd /

ADJECTIVE

calm, quiet

Synonyms

STRONGEST

discreet laid-back mild muted reasonable reticent subdued tasteful unobtrusive

STRONG

chilled controlled cool moderate plain retiring shrinking steady withdrawn

WEAK

bottled-up calm and collected conservative corked up in charge in check inobtrusive on a leash self-controlled soft temperate unaffable undemonstrative under control under wraps unexcessive unexpansive unextreme uptight

Antonyms

STRONGEST

communicative

STRONG

extroverted friendly outgoing

WEAK

assured bold confident

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Cold War military doctrine restrained the U.S. from taking advantage of its military superiority.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

The article characterizes his demeanor as overly restrained and controlled, contrasting his stiff posture and stone-faced expression with the animated gestures and expressions of other candidates.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

The state government, desperate to stimulate the economy and its moribund real-estate sector, began eroding the growth management plan that had restrained development.

From Slate • Apr. 20, 2026

Appeal judges have reduced the damages previously awarded to a former pupil who said he was repeatedly restrained at a private residential special school.

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

Right now, they shine with barely restrained mirth.

From "An Ember in the Ashes" by Sabaa Tahir

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